The discussion about batteries will always pop up when shopping for solar batteries. Choosing the ideal one for a solar panel setup can be challenging, with many available types of solar batteries. In this article, we will look at the gel type battery – what it is, how it works, and what is a gel battery used for.
Before we proceed, let’s answer the most important question: what is a gel battery? A gel cell battery differs from a typical lead-acid battery by adding a gelling agent in the sulfuric acid, creating a sulfuric acid electrolyte colloidal state. This allows for better power output and low self-discharging, enhancing any solar power setup.
How Does a Gel Battery Work?
Now that we understand the gel battery meaning better let’s take a deep dive into how the setup works.
A gel battery comprises three main parts. These are:
- A negatively charged lead and antimony metal plate
- A positively charged lead dioxide metal plate
- The gel-like electrolyte solution containing sulfuric acid and silica
The plates are then suspended on the solution and connected with wires, creating the battery.
As the battery functions, lead sulfate is produced and combines with the free hydrogen ions on the electrolyte to create another batch of sulfuric acid. With typical lead acid batteries, discharging up to 50% is recommended to maintain optimal performance. But with gel batteries, it can discharge lower than 50% without affecting its performance or lifespan.
Advantages of Gel Batteries
A critical question when discussing gel batteries is how are gel batteries better than other options. Let’s list some benefits of gel battery in a solar setup.
Safe to Use
One perk of using a solar gel battery is that it releases minimal hydrogen gas from its vents, making it the safest lead acid battery on the market.
Low Self-Discharge
With gel batteries capable of discharging below 50% of its stored energy, it’s more efficient and has a longer cycle and standby life than its contemporaries.
Higher and Stable Performance
The gel component of the electrolyte within the battery helps maintain a high and stable power output until the end of its service life.
Hassle-Free Maintenance
Because this battery type uses gel instead of typical liquid, there are little to no leaks during the replacement process. It also helps eliminate maintenance issues that commonly happen with liquid lead-acid batteries. Plus, they’re perfect for smaller home solar setups, as they can be positioned at various angles without worrying about leakage.
High Shock and Vibration Resistance
Since the electrolyte component is gel-based instead of water, gel batteries can withstand shocks, vibrations, and continuous movement without damage or leaks.
Gel Battery Disadvantages
As with any solar battery, gel type batteries have their downsides. This section will go through several negatives of using a solar gel battery.
Higher Cost
Due to its setup, gel batteries for solar have a higher price tag than standard battery options.
Lower Energy Storage
A gel-type battery stores less energy in the same space than other lead-acid battery varieties. This could lead to the setup requiring more frequent charging.
Requires Monitoring when Charging
Gel battery type setups need a dedicated smart charger for proper charging and overcharging prevention. And while they can withstand burnout caused by deep discharges, users must monitor the charging process to avoid irreparable damage to the electrolyte.
Strict Temperature Sensitivity
Like other solar batteries, storing a gel-type battery in places that get too hot often can drastically cut its service life. Additionally, gel type batteries perform poorly in low-temperature locations.
Solar Gel Battery Applications
With its versatility, durability, and efficient power output, gel batteries see use in a wide range of fields. They play vital roles in major industries like telecommunications, robotics, and energy transport. They’re also a reliable emergency power source to keep infrastructures running during power outages or in rural areas.
In a smaller setting, gel batteries for solar can be used to power solar setups in residences. Their flexibility allows them to be set up in smaller spaces without the risk of leaks or large fume releases. Mobile homes and campers also benefit from gel batteries, as they can deal with constant shocks and vibrations with little to no effect on the battery.
AGM or Gel Battery?
With a market full of solar cell options like AGM, lead-acid, and gel batteries, some may need clarification about which one to use on their setup. This section will focus on the difference between AGM and gel batteries and answer the question, ‘Are gel batteries better?’
Let’s quickly discuss what an AGM battery is for a better picture. Absorbent Glass Mat or AGM batteries use fiberglass to absorb electrolytes rather than metal plates. Acting like a sponge that keeps electrolytes close to the positive and negative plates, it allows the battery to discharge more times and lasts several years compared to most lead-acid batteries.
With a market full of solar cell options like AGM, lead-acid, and gel batteries, some may need clarification about which one to use on their setup. This section will focus on the difference between AGM and gel batteries and answer the question, ‘Are gel batteries better?’
Let’s quickly discuss what an AGM battery is for a better picture. Absorbent Glass Mat or AGM batteries use fiberglass to absorb electrolytes rather than metal plates. Acting like a sponge that keeps electrolytes close to the positive and negative plates, it allows the battery to discharge more times and lasts several years compared to most lead-acid batteries.
BLJ Solar is the brand to trust for reliable and high-performance gel batteries. As a global gel battery producer in China, we have over a decade of solar product manufacturing experience specializing in solar battery and energy storage technology.
Focusing on innovation and ingenuity, we aim to provide the global market with cleaner energy while setting a new standard for excellence and collaborative gain. Always offering suitable solutions at competitive prices, we’re driven to elevate businesses with our expertly made gel batteries range.
Reinforcing our commitment to excellence is a talented and well-funded in-house R&D department. Working in cutting-edge laboratories with the latest equipment, our team leads the pack in solar battery innovation, including Battery Management System (BMS) technology, electrolyte development, and exceptional pack design. We also conduct rigorous testing during production with precision instruments and industry benchmarks, ensuring each gel battery meets global requirements.
Along with our manufacturing prowess, we also have strong partnerships with leading suppliers in the industry. Their valuable investment helps strengthen our production capabilities and increase the quality of our gel batteries, making them the gold standard.
Conclusion
After understanding what is a gel type battery, looking at its strengths, and answering how are gel batteries better, we hope that you have more profound knowledge about this standout solar battery option. Its distinct combination of sulfuric acid and silica to create the gel-like electrolyte makes it indispensable in several applications and perfect for residential solar power use.
Ready to bring your business forward with cutting-edge gel batteries? Contact BLJ Solar today and book a consultation to see how our industry-defining gel batteries can charge your brand.